You can choose a construction law lawyer by:
- Researching law firms that serve your community
- Contacting the firms that you find most promising
- Choosing the firm that answers your questions to your satisfaction
Steps for Choosing a Construction Law Attorney
If you do not know any construction law lawyers in your area, a basic internet search should yield the websites of firms who serve your community and have experience with commercial law. From there, you can:
- Visit the sites of as many law firms as you need to get a feel for the options available in your area
- Check their website to make sure that the firm serves your area and has the experience you require
- Read through company reviews on both their site and on sites like Google Reviews
- Ask acquaintances and colleagues if they know of any construction lawyers they would (or would not) recommend
- Schedule an appointment to speak with someone from the firm
If you are comfortable with the first firm you meet, you can hire them right away, though it may be a good idea to meet with a few more law firms. This way, you can make sure they are the best fit and be confident that you have made the right decision.
To consult with an experienced construction law lawyer today, call 855-780-9986
Questions to Ask a Lawyer About Construction Law
When you meet with a construction law firm, it is good to come prepared. Bring a list of questions you need to be answered and something you can take notes with (a pen and paper or even a phone app will do).
Sample questions to consider are included below. Some of these may not be relevant to your situation, and you may have additional questions based on your expected needs:
- Do you have experience working with construction companies similar in size and scope to mine?
- Do you have courtroom experience?
- How long does it generally take you to do [a particular task]?
- How do you calculate fees?
- What type of payment structure do you use?
- What are the terms of your lawyer-client contract? Are any of them negotiable?
You will want to pay special attention to their answers concerning areas you expect to deal with frequently. For instance, if you are having trouble getting permits from the local government, make sure they know how to deal with local government agencies and are familiar with the type of permits you are seeking.
If you are unsatisfied with the answers you receive, you can disregard that firm and focus your attention on the others.
Meeting With a Construction Law Firm
If, after meeting with several firms, you are only comfortable with one, you can either hire that firm or go back to step one and research other construction law firms. But, again, it depends on how comfortable you are with that firm and how much time you have.
Who you choose from that point on is entirely up to you. While you may be anxious to hire a construction law attorney right away, it is better to take a few days to:
- Review the notes you took during each meeting
- Contact firms with any follow-up questions
- Weigh all of your options carefully
- Consult other people within the company and ask for their opinions
A good law firm should be happy to give you the time you need to review your options. However, if they seem impatient or if you feel pressured to make a quick decision, that is probably not the firm for you.
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Signing a Contract With a Lawyer
This is the final step in the process of hiring a construction law lawyer. A contract represents the entirety of your agreement with a law firm, so make sure you are completely satisfied with everything in it and that nothing important is missing. Do not sign a contract with any law firm until you have had a chance to:
- Read it over
- Ask the firm to clarify anything you are unsure of
- Negotiate for better terms as necessary
- Consult a contract attorney as necessary
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What If I Change My Mind About My Construction Law Lawyer?
Sometimes, a firm you thought would be a good fit turns out not to be. If you are ever dissatisfied with a law firm’s service, talk to your lawyer about it: the issue may be something you can resolve. If not, you have every right to find another lawyer.
That said, switching attorneys can be stressful, especially if you are in the middle of something important. However, by following the steps outlined above—researching construction law firms, asking questions, and considering your options—you can improve your chances of finding the right firm the first time.
Our Construction Law Lawyers Are Here to Help You Today
Bogin, Munns & Munns represents construction companies who want help understanding their rights and obligations and handling any legal problems they have encountered. Call today to find out how choosing a lawyer for construction law from our firm can help keep your projects running smoothly.
Call or text 855-780-9986 or submit our Consultation Request form today
